Yogyakarta, May 20, 2025 — Students and alumni of the Extension and Development Communication (PKP) UGM Study Program presented their research findings in an exclusive masterclass with Dr. Harro Maat from the Knowledge, Technology and Innovation (KTI) Group, Wageningen University, the Netherlands. This event took place at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) UGM and was part of Dr. Harro Maat’s guest lecture series, titled “The Colonial Reshaping of Agriculture on Java: The Role of Western Science and Farmers’ Knowledge” on May 19, 2025.
In this masterclass session, the students and alumni had the opportunity to present their diverse research topics relevant to contemporary issues in agricultural development. Beny Nabila presented their research, which focused on communication strategies in agricultural extension. Tyas Niswatun Sa’idah addressed the theme of the effectiveness of the Farmer Field School program in enhancing farmer capacity. Meanwhile, Abiyyu Rifqi P. discussed the empowerment of women farmer groups as key actors in rural development. Yayan Restiandi presented his research on the roles and challenges of young farmers in maintaining the sustainability of the agricultural sector amidst rapid social and economic changes.
The discussion was intensive and interactive. Dr. Harro Maat provided critical feedback and valuable insights, particularly concerning the often-unbalanced relationship between Western science and local farmers’ knowledge. He emphasized the importance of understanding the social context and history of agriculture in Indonesia, including how the colonial legacy has helped shape perspectives on agriculture to this day. The participants gained new perspectives on methodological approaches and the importance of critical reflection when researching agricultural development issues.
This event not only served as a forum for knowledge exchange but also strengthened the international academic network between the PKP UGM Study Program and Wageningen University. Through activities like this, students and alumni are encouraged to continuously develop their academic capacities and build international collaborations that support the strengthening of sustainable agricultural systems in Indonesia.